Objectives of Controlling
Controlling is a crucial management function aimed at ensuring that an organization’s activities are aligned with its goals and objectives. Here are ten key objectives of controlling in management, each explained an example:
Ensuring Goal Achievement
The primary objective of controlling is to ensure that the organization meets its established goals and objectives. By monitoring performance and comparing it with the set standards, managers can identify deviations and take corrective actions to steer the organization back on course.
This helps in achieving both short-term targets and long-term strategic goals. For example, if a company aims to increase its market share by 10% within a year, controlling mechanisms will monitor sales performance regularly to ensure this target is met. If sales are lagging, managers can investigate the causes and implement strategies to boost sales
Improving Efficiency
Controlling aims to enhance the efficiency of operations by minimizing wastage of resources such as time, money, and materials. Efficient resource utilization leads to cost savings and improved productivity. By identifying areas where resources are being underutilized or wasted, managers can implement measures to optimize their use.
For instance, a manufacturing firm might use controlling techniques to monitor the production process and identify areas where materials are being wasted or processes are taking longer than necessary. By addressing these issues, the firm can reduce costs and increase productivity.
Facilitating Coordination
Effective control systems facilitate coordination among different departments and functions within the organization. By ensuring that all parts of the organization are working towards common objectives, controlling helps in synchronizing activities, avoiding conflicts, and fostering teamwork.
For example, in a large corporation, the marketing department’s activities need to be coordinated with the production schedule to ensure that promotional campaigns align with product availability. Controlling helps in monitoring these activities and ensuring that they are synchronized.
Enhancing Employee Motivation
A well-implemented control system can enhance employee motivation by providing clear expectations and feedback. When employees understand what is expected of them and receive regular feedback on their performance, they are more likely to be motivated and committed to their work. This can lead to higher job satisfaction and productivity.
For example, a sales team that receives monthly performance reports and recognition for meeting targets is likely to be more motivated than one that operates without such feedback.
Ensuring Order and Discipline
Controlling helps maintain order and discipline within the organization by monitoring adherence to policies, procedures, and standards. By identifying and addressing non-compliance, managers can create a disciplined work environment where rules are followed, and organizational norms are respected.
For example, a company might implement attendance tracking systems to ensure punctuality and regularity among employees. By monitoring attendance and addressing irregularities, the company can maintain a disciplined workforce.
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Judging the Accuracy of Standards
Another essential objective of controlling is to assess the accuracy and relevance of the standards set during the planning phase. By comparing actual performance with these standards, managers can determine whether the standards are realistic and achievable. If necessary, they can adjust the standards to better reflect current conditions and capabilities.
For instance, if a company sets a target to produce 1,000 units per day but consistently falls short, controlling mechanisms will help identify whether the target is too ambitious or if there are operational inefficiencies that need to be addressed.
Minimizing Errors and Fraud
Controlling helps in identifying and minimizing errors and fraud within the organization. By implementing checks and balances, regular audits, and monitoring systems, managers can detect irregularities early and take corrective actions to prevent them from escalating. This helps in maintaining the integrity and credibility of the organization.
For example, regular financial audits can help in identifying discrepancies and ensuring that all financial transactions are legitimate. By addressing errors and fraud promptly, the organization can maintain its integrity and trustworthiness.
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Providing a Basis for Future Planning
Effective control systems provide valuable feedback that can be used for future planning. By analyzing the outcomes of current operations and identifying areas for improvement, managers can make informed decisions and develop better plans for the future. This continuous improvement cycle enhances the organization’s adaptability and resilience.
For instance, if a marketing campaign does not achieve its expected results, the insights gained from controlling mechanisms can help in designing better campaigns in the future. By continuously learning from past performance, the organization can improve its planning processes and outcomes.
Enhancing Decision-Making
Controlling provides managers with accurate and timely information about organizational performance, which is crucial for effective decision-making. By having access to relevant data and insights, managers can make informed decisions that align with the organization’s goals and improve overall performance.
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For example, a manager deciding whether to expand a product line will benefit from detailed performance reports on current products. This data helps in making decisions that are aligned with the organization’s strategic goals.
Maintaining Organizational Flexibility
An objective of controlling is to maintain organizational flexibility by allowing for adjustments in response to changes in the external environment. A flexible control system can adapt to new challenges, opportunities, and uncertainties, ensuring that the organization remains competitive and resilient.
For example, if a new competitor enters the market, a flexible control system will enable the organization to quickly adapt its strategies to maintain its competitive edge.
Hence, these are the 10 objectives of controlling in business management.
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Sujan Chaudhary holds a Bachelor in Business Administration (BBA) degree and is currently pursuing an MBA degree. He loves to share his business knowledge with the rest of the world.